Subaru Forester Wheel Bearing Problems
Subaru Foresters have been reported to have issues with wheel bearings. These problems are particularly notable in certain model years and can lead to symptoms such as grinding or droning noise while driving. The 2014-2018 Subaru Foresters are reported to have short-lived wheel bearings, with the 2014 models being particularly prone to this issue. Additionally, rear wheel bearing problems have been mentioned in relation to the 2000 Subaru Forester, with multiple replacements required. Furthermore, there are reports of rear wheel bearing noise in a 2014 Forester with 73,000 miles, indicating that this issue is not uncommon in Subaru cars.
It’s important to note that the rear wheel bearings on Subaru Foresters have been a recurring issue, with some owners expressing concerns about the frequency of replacements and the potential safety implications. The noise from a bad wheel bearing is described as a low-pitched grinding sound, and it is advised to have a professional mechanic diagnose the problem to ensure accurate identification. Additionally, other factors such as driving with unbalanced tires or poor wheel alignment can contribute to premature bearing failure.
In summary, Subaru Foresters have been associated with wheel bearing problems, particularly in certain model years, and it’s advisable for owners to be vigilant for symptoms such as grinding or droning noises and to seek professional diagnosis and repair when necessary.
Contents
- How do I know if my Subaru wheel bearings are bad?
- What are the downsides of a Subaru Forester?
- Are there any recalls on Subaru Foresters?
- What is the most common issue for Subaru Forester?
- Do Subarus have wheel bearing issues?
- How long do wheel bearings last on a Subaru?
- Why do Subaru bearings fail?
- Is the Subaru Forester more reliable than the Outback?
- How reliable are the Subaru Foresters?
- How long should a wheel bearing last on a Subaru Forester?
How do I know if my Subaru wheel bearings are bad?
Watch out and listen for these signs:
- Humming Noise. The most easily identifiable and common symptom of bad wheel bearings is audible.
- Squealing, Growling.
- Clicking Sound.
- Wheel Wobble.
- ABS Failure.
- Uneven Tire Wear.
- Vehicle Pulls to One Side.
- Steering Wheel Vibration.
What are the downsides of a Subaru Forester?
A list of some of the most common issues Forester owners have to deal with.
- CAN System Parasitic Drain on the Battery.
- Unintended Acceleration.
- Brake Light Switch Defect.
- Cracked Windshields.
- Lineartronic CVT Reliability.
- Rodents Chew Subaru’s Soy Wires.
- Subaru EyeSight Problems.
- Subaru Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags.
Are there any recalls on Subaru Foresters?
Subaru issues recall for over 95K Crosstreks, Foresters, Legacys and Outbacks. Subaru has recalled multiple vehicles with the model years 2021-2023 because of a rearview image issue.
What is the most common issue for Subaru Forester?
Most Common Subaru Forester Problems
- Engine Issues. There are a variety of issues that owners have reported that are related to the Check Engine light being illuminated.
- Transmission Problems. Subaru Forester transmission problems typically occur in two ways – shuddering or jerking.
- Oil Consumption.
- Electrical Issues.
Do Subarus have wheel bearing issues?
Subaru uses low quality bearings from the factory. Complain all you want, but they’ve been doing it for decades and don’t seem to care about it. Replace them with a quality aftermarket brand (Timken) and be done with it. Be happy you don’t have a stick shift, the throw out bearings in them are junk too.
How long do wheel bearings last on a Subaru?
How long does a wheel bearing last? Wheel bearings have an average lifespan of 136,000 to 160,000 km (approximately 85,000 to 100,000 miles). This is only a rule of thumb though, the actual lifespan of a wheel bearing depends on the quality of the wheel bearing and the operating conditions.
Why do Subaru bearings fail?
With the Subaru EJ engines having such a small oil capacity, the oil gets saturated with combustion by products and other engine material sooner. This dirty oil wreaks havoc on bearings and causes them to wear prematurely. With the bearings already being at a disadvantage due to their size, wear also occurs sooner.
Is the Subaru Forester more reliable than the Outback?
You can’t go wrong with either the 2023 Subaru Forester or the 2023 Subaru Outback, with both taking five out of our 10 evaluation categories. The Forester starts and tops out at lower prices than the Outback, gets a higher rating for reliability, has a slightly higher-quality interior and gets better fuel economy.
How reliable are the Subaru Foresters?
The 2024 Subaru Forester has a predicted reliability score of 84 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
How long should a wheel bearing last on a Subaru Forester?
100,000 miles
Typically, there is no maintenance required for your Subaru wheel bearings, but a replacement is usually needed after 100,000 miles of driving.